For Osriq Trinide, math isn’t just about numbers — it’s about clarity and the challenge of finding your own path to the right answer. This fall, the Seattle Academy of Arts and Sciences (SAAS) graduate and Cohort 17 Rainier Scholar will begin a new chapter at Seattle University, where he plans to study applied mathematics with the goal of becoming a teacher. “I like having answers for things,” he says. “Even with real-world problems, you can relate math to almost anything.”
One Rainier Scholars teacher in particular — Liz Sadler, Director of Learning Support — first sparked Osriq’s deeper interest in the subject. “It was fun to be in her class. I don’t think I even liked school before that,” he admits. “But she made math exciting.”
That early encouragement grew into a passion. While at SAAS, Osriq advanced through Calculus II, but it wasn’t until he served as a student advisor at Rainier Scholars that he began seriously thinking about becoming an educator himself.
“As an advisor, you’re also like a teaching assistant” he explains. “I worked with them closely, and it helped me decide that I want to be a teacher.” He even taught a few lessons in multiplying and dividing fractions and experienced the pressure and responsibility of helping others learn. “I tried to bring the same energy Ms. Sadler had,” he says with a smile, “but it was hard to beat.” Looking ahead, Osriq is drawn to the idea of teaching math, where he can help students find their own footing in the subject, just as he did.
Beyond sparking his interest in math, Osriq credits Rainier Scholars with instilling the accountability, perseverance, and self-advocacy he’s relied on throughout his academic journey. Because SAAS doesn’t have a football team, he played the sport at Rainier Beach High School, which meant a lot of time practicing and commuting while also grappling with a demanding pre-calculus course. “It was a major time commitment,” he says. “Pre-calc is completely different from algebra, and I had to spend extra time with my teacher and studying at home. But I ended up getting an A in the class.” The motivation to push through difficult moments, even without certainty, is directly linked to his Rainier Scholars’ experience. “They always had us reaching higher and working harder than other students our age. So, we’re always prepared for whatever is thrown at us in the classroom.”
Osriq will be living on campus this fall, and while Seattle University is still close to home, the change feels meaningful. “I’ve been at the same school since sixth grade,” he says. “I’m excited to meet new people and have new experiences.” When asked how he feels about this next step, Osriq remains unfazed. “I’m pretty excited, but I don’t feel nervous. To me, it’s just more school.” For a future math teacher, that kind of mindset simply adds up.